minnesota

Citations for Texting While Driving up 23 Percent From 2016

DIstracted driving on the rise

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) _ Minnesota authorities issued more citations for distracted driving in 2017, while citations for speeding and lack of seat belt use saw declines. Authorities gave out 7,357 citations for texting while driving in 2017. That’s up nearly 23 percent from 2016, and up 331 percent from five years ago. The Department of Public Safety says distracted driving contributed…

Minnesota Legislators Announce Birth Control Protection Bill

The Protect Access to Contraception (PAC) Act will protect no-cost birth control in Minnesota.

St. Paul, Minn. – Yesterday, Minnesota Legislators and supporters gathered in the Minnesota State Capitol to announce legislation that will protect no-cost birth control coverage in Minnesota from further attacks by the Trump Administration.  The legislation will guarantee the basic right of Minnesotans to plan their families and access the birth control method that is right for them. The Protect…

The Duluth Police Department is Asking for Help Locating a Missing Juvenile

The 14-year-old Duluth male never came home after school

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a 14-year-old male. Hunter Joseph Goeden did not return home from school yesterday, March 8. Hunter is approximately 5’8”, 115 pounds with blue eyes and blond hair. He was last seen wearing a purple/green plaid shirt, white jogging pants, A Seahawks BB cap, grey Nike…

Accidental Cooking Fire Sends One to Local Hospital

The fire happened at the Tri-Towers Apartments

DULUTH, Minn. – An accidental cooking fire that broke out at a Duluth high rise apartment last night has sent one to an area hospital for an evaluation. Fire crews responded to the Tri-Towers Apartments around 7:00 p.m. where smoke was billowing out of the sixth floor of the building. Fire damage is estimated to be around $20,000. Categories: News,…

Pop-up Taproom Coming to Miller Hill Mall

Craft brew enthusiasts will be able to enjoy a canal park brew at the mall.

DULUTH, Minn.- One local Duluth brewery will soon be serving beer at the Miller Hill Mall for a limited time. Canal Park Brewery will serve select brews and menu items at the old Teavana location. Officials say two old favorites from past years will be on tap including the black IPA and an imperial lager. “Were very excited its such…

Minnesota Man Charged for Urinating in Female Coworker’s Water Bottle

Female coworker rejected his advances.

Conrrado Cruz Perez. (Courtesy of the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office)VADNAIS HEIGHTS, Minn. (AP) _ A Minnesota restaurant worker is accused of urinating in a co-worker’s water bottle after the woman rejected his advances. Prosecutors charged 47-year-old Conrrado Cruz Perez of Minneapolis with adulterating a substance with bodily fluids. The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports deputies were called to the restaurant…

Duluth Police Department Warns of Spoofing Scam

An apparent spoofing scam is targeting the Duluth area.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is sending out a warning this morning of an apparent spoofing scam. A male caller has been targeting the area utilizing a number out of Cambridge, MN claiming to be collecting donations on behalf of a first responder’s fundraiser. When pressed for more information about their organization and where they were based out…

Minnesota Doctors Call for ban on Assault Weapons

The largest physicians' organization in Minnesota is calling for a ban on assault weapons.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The largest physicians’ organization in Minnesota is calling for a ban on assault weapons and more research on gun violence in the wake of the Florida high school shooting. Leaders of the Minnesota Medical Association say it’s time that gun violence becomes a public health issue. In a statement Thursday, the group says “failure to intervene in…

Duluth Prom Dress Giveaway Touches Colorado Bridal Shop

If the Dress Fits will be holding its third annual Prom Dress Giveaway

DULUTH, Minn. – If the Dress Fits will be holding its third annual Prom Dress Giveaway for local high school students on Sunday March 18 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Bella Rose Bridal. The non-profit organization was founded by mother-daughter duo Ashley and Amy Arntson who have helped provide more than 100 free prom dresses to high school…

The Northern Lights Express Passenger Rail Project Gets Green Light to Seek Funding

Federal Railroad Administration issues a Finding of No Significant Impact on Tier 2 Environmental Assessment.

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Federal Administration has found that the Northern Lights Express project will not have significant environmental impacts and can proceed to seek funding for final design and construction. FRA and MnDOT, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, prepared a Tier 2 EA for the NLX Project, which examined the 152-mile project corridor relative to…

UPDATE: Eel Pout Festival Death Ruled Accidental

An autposy is still pending and the incident remains under investigation.

WALKER, Minn. – The Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled the death of Samuel Schooley, age 21, an accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. On February 25 at about 8:50 a.m. the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an unresponsive male in a fish house at the Eel Pout Festival. The victim was transported to the Park Rapids Hospital…

Update: Three Victims in Duluth Stabbing

Male has been taken into custody

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Duluth Police Department there were three adult victims in the Riverside Neighborhood stabbing this morning stemming from a domestic assault incident. All three victims are being treated at local hospitals for non-life threatening injuries. A 34-year-old male was taken into custody at the scene and lodged at the St. Louis County Jail. He is…

Mall of America Owners Seek to add Water Park

The park would cost between $150 million and $200 million.

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (AP) – The owners of the Mall of America hope to add a huge water park near the shopping center that the city of Bloomington would pay for and own. The Star Tribune reports that Triple 5 pitched the plan to the city’s Port Authority in a memo released Tuesday. The park would be about 225,000 square feet…

Bill Would Fine People who Pass off pet as Service Animal

Minnesota lawmakers are considering fines.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota lawmakers are considering fines for people who misrepresent their pets as trained service animals. A pair of bills in the House and Senate would make it a petty misdemeanor, punishable with a $100 fine. The House Public Safety Committee was taking up one of the bills Wednesday. Supporters of the fines say passing off…

Thunder Bay Man Arrested for Drug Possession in Cook County

Over 3,000 non prescription narcotic pills seized.

GRAND MARIAS, Minn. – A Thunder Bay man was arrested on Friday by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance from the US Border patrol and charged with 1st Degree Drug Possession. John Edward Heinonen, age 60, picked up a package in Grand Portage that contained approximately 3,000 non-prescribed narcotic pills. “I commend the efforts of our CCSO investigator…

MNLARS Funding Clears Hurdle but With Strings Attached

A House committee advanced a bill Tuesday that would authorize the money but force to cut it from executive agency budgets.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Gov. Mark Dayton and Republican lawmakers are clashing over how to fix the state’s new vehicle registration system. The botched roll out of the platform dubbed MNLARS has caused long delays and headaches. State officials have said they need an extra $43 million to fix it, including an emergency $10 million infusion. The Republican-controlled Legislature…

Outdoor Hockey Season Comes to an End

The ice rinks in Superior are closed until next winter.

Superior, Wis.-It’s the end of the season for outdoor ice hockey in Superior. Friday is the last day the rinks will be open. Officials say with the spring like conditions lately, the ice wasn’t ideal. However officials in Duluth say they’re hoping for one more good hockey weekend. Bayfront rink will remain open and be reassessed on Monday. Categories: Community,…

Medical Professionals Discuss Critical Patient Care

The critical care conference is put on by St. Luke's including a variety of health workers.

DULUTH, Minn.- Medical professionals work in time critical conditions everyday and are reviewing past patient care. Medical professionals with St. Luke’s Hospital held a conference Friday at Pier B resort to review better ways to care for patients in critical condition. The conversation is discussing time critical illnesses and injuries, such as a heart attack. “What went well, what didn’t…

Students Speak Out Discussing Mental Health

This is the second year the student ran group YOUmatter, held Speak Out Night.

DULUTH, Minn.- Students in Duluth are breaking the silence on the topic of mental health. The second annual Speak Out Night event was held at the University of Minnesota Duluth. The group, YOUmatter, was put together by students. They’re opening up the conversation about mental health and suicide in the community. Thursday YOUmatter got the conversation going, sharing experiences with mental…

New Bent Paddle Taproom Soon to Open

The new location will be welcomed in with Spring.

DULUTH, Minn.- Craft brewery lovers can start their count down for spring and look forward to an extra incentive. The new Bent Paddle tap room doors will open this spring. The new location is just one block further down. Officials say the new space is coming along, it will offer more room and a dog friendly patio. “More beer on tap, more…

Governor Dayton Urges Passage of MinnesotaCare Buy-In

WillgGive Minnesotans Another, More Affordable Choice for Health Insurance

ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Mark Dayton today urged state legislators to support and pass a “MinnesotaCare Buy-In” option this session. The proposal would allow all Minnesotans the choice to purchase their health insurance through MinnesotaCare – a state program that for 26 years has provided some eligible working Minnesota families a more affordable choice to purchase their health care….

Providing Local Food in the Winter

The Food Farm serves nearly 400 families in the Duluth area.

WRENSHALL, Minn.- Summer in the Northland offers many farmers markets and weather conditions to eat locally sourced produce. One farm is dedicated to providing families in the Duluth area with fresh produce during every season. Food Farm owners Johnaki Fisher–Merrit and Annie Dugan pride themselves on suppling their crisp fresh produce through every season. “The big purpose of our farm…

HCIS Students Fundraising for Unique Field Trip

Every student is responsible for their own fundraising goal.

DULUTH, Minn.- Local students are working hard to raise money this weekend, for a once in a lifetime school field trip. Students at the Harbor City International School in Duluth held a rummage sale to raise funds for a trip to Europe. The school rather than fundraising for technology or other tangible things, traveling outside the country will stick with…

Veterans Across the Midwest March to Raise Awareness

Nearly 100 veterans marched in Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn.- Nearly 100 veterans in the State of Minnesota are marching to spread awareness of veteran suicide. Every day in the United States there are 23 Veteran suicides. Operation 23 to Zero MN North came together Saturday morning and marched nearly five miles for the February Fun Ruck to raise awareness of the epidemic. Veterans with Operation 23 to Zero…

Senator Amy Klobuchar visits Duluth Discussing Net Neutrality

The Senate bill needs one more vote of support to pass the bill that would put net neutrality rules back in place.

DULUTH, Minn.- Senator Amy Klobuchar spoke out in the  Northland voicing concerns on the future of net neutrality. The U.S. Senate currently has 50 of the 51 votes needed to support a bill that would potentially reverse the FCC’s decision to repeal net neutrality.  Senator Amy Klobuchar was in Duluth this afternoon to discuss net neutrality, and how keeping neutrality…

Downtown Duluth Basks in Warm Winter Day

Many Northlanders were out enjoying the sunshine.

DULUTH, Minn.- Many people were out and about downtown Duluth on Friday enjoying the sunshine while it lasts. FOX21 spoke to one couple that fell in love with Duluth and decided to permanently leave the cities. “We were delighted with some new discoveries,” Jerry Oakerman said. “There’s music every night, the culture is growing with the theatre opening again and…

Northland Hospitals in Minnesota Medical Errors Report

There were  341 medical errors across the state with 103 serious injuries.

DULUTH, Minn.- The state of Minnesota says medical errors reported by Minnesota hospitals and surgical centers have been rising slightly the past four years and the number of resulting deaths rose in 2017 to 12 compared to four in 2016. There were  341 medical errors across the state with 103 serious injuries and Duluth’s St. Luke’s and Essentia Hospitals are…

Minnesota Hospital Errors Rose Slightly Over Past Four Years

Adverse Events Leading to Death Rises to 12 Cases

ST. PAUL, Minn.-An annual report says medical errors reported by Minnesota hospitals and surgical centers have been rising slightly for the past four years, and the number of resulting deaths rose in 2017. The state health department’s 14th annual Adverse Health Events report tracks errors that risk patient harm. Of the 341 adverse events reported, 103 resulted in serious injuries…

The Great Cabbage Giveaway

The Food Farm has been serving the Duluth Community since 1975.

DULUTH, Minn.- One organization is helping Northlanders put locally sourced food on the table during the winter time. The Food Farm gaveaway free cabbage at Zeitgeist Arts Cafe.  The Great Cabbage Giveaway gives people an opportunity to connect with the farmers who grow their food. “So often you connect with your farmer through the food you eat, which is great,” Food…

The Curling Effect

Curling equipment is flying off the shelves while the Winter Olympics are going.

DULUTH, Minn.-During the Winter Olympics curling spectators can watch at home, sparking newcomers and experienced curlers to give the sport a try. All you really need are shoes and a broom. More advanced curlers suit up in stretch pants, gloves and a helmet.  The Lakeside Curling Supplies Shop has it all, including the same broom as team U.S.A “The curlers…

Lawmakers Head Back to St. Paul For Three-Month Session

Session Began Earlier Today

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Minnesota’s latest legislative session is getting underway. State lawmakers were due to return to the Capitol Tuesday with a long to-do list. Squaring Minnesota’s tax code with the recently passed federal tax cuts is one of the top priorities for 2018. But none of that work is required. The Legislature accomplished its primary job last year when it…

Drivers Washing Away Winter Blues

Local car washes are booming with business during this warmer weather.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s starting to feel like spring is in the air, many drivers today lined up at the car wash cleaning away the winter blues. Workers at the Miller Hill Car Wash say sunny days are the perfect time to clean up the inside and outside of your vehicle. “Plus people are really dirty after the winter on the…

Preparing Restaurants for Valentines Day

The New Scenic Cafe receives some reservations a year in advance.

DULUTH, Minn.- Its Valentine’s Day which for some means taking your partner out for a bite to eat, making it a busy day in the kitchen for Northland eateries. The New Scenic Cafe says they stock up on over %50 more food and ingredients than usual for Valentine’s Day. To honor couples that can’t celebrate on a week night the…

Experiencing the Outdoors, Inside at the Boat Show

The boat show offers many of unique displays.

DULUTH, Minn.- With the warm weather outside and the new boats inside, the Boat Show is a great place to create your summer wish list. From fishing boats, speed boats, to kayaks the show offers a wide selection if you’re looking for a new summer ride. Sadly you can’t test drive the boats this week but show includes many interactive…

Local Pub Serves Up New Orleans Cuisine

Carmody Irish Pub wants to celebrate Mardi Gras the traditional way in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn.- One local pub in downtown Duluth is serving up free food creole style. Carmody Irish Pub located on E. Superior St. will be boiling up the traditional New Orleans crawfish all Tuesday night long. They’ll even teach you how to eat the popular craw fish. “When the chef brings it in they just, they’ll elbow you out of…

New Coffee Shop Offers “Common Ground” in Cloquet

Common Ground Coffee Bar and Deli Invites People of all Ages, Race and Ethicity to Gather for Friendship, Games, Entertainment

CLOQUET, Minn. – When it comes to getting a cup of coffee we’re often in a rush, heading through the drive thru looking to grab and go. However, creators of a new coffee shop and deli in the City of Cloquet are looking to bring people together, creating common ground. “I think as a culture we’ve kind of gotten away…

Enjoying the Partially Frozen Lake Superior

According to Minnesota DNR the ice needs to be four inches thick to be walked on.

DULUTH, Minn.-  There are 1.5 million issued fishing licenses in Minnesota, according to Explore Minnesota %10 of license holding anglers are ice fishers. Before grabbing your fishing rod and tackle box, you need to make sure it’s safe. According to the Minnesota DNR ice needs to be at least four inches thick. Right now parts of Lake Superior have favorable…

Rep. Nolan Retirement Announcement Surprises Northland

Many Candidates Have Announced Running for the 8th District Congressional Seat

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota’s 8th District Congressional Representative Rick Nolan announced he’s retiring at the end of his term and will not be a candidate for re-election. Rep. Rick Nolan has spent 16 years in elective office devoting a lot of time to Minnesota. In a statement released Friday Nolan says there’s a time and a purpose for everything and now is the…

Congressman Rick Nolan to Retire After Current Term

Nolan Announced Retirement Friday Morning

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Rick Nolan has announced he will be retiring at the end of his term. Rep. Nolan made the announcement through a letter to the press Friday morning. Nolan has represented Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District since 2013. Previously, he represented Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District from 1975-1981. Rep. Nolan’s letter: “To the great people of Minnesota’s 8th District…

2018 Black Woods Blizzard Tour Looks to Surpass One Million Dollars

The Black Woods Blizzard Tour Supports the ALS Association Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Chapter

PROCTOR, Minn. – Over 200 snowmobile riders and dozens of volunteers are warmed up Thursday evening at Fortune Bay Resort in Tower, Minnesota. The 19th Annual Black Woods Blizzard Tour started early Thursday morning as riders bundled up and revved up their engines, all for a good cause. “My blood is going, I love it! It doesn’t get any better…

Snowmobilers Help Fight ALS

The 19th Blackwoods Blizzard Tour has raised $8.8 million over the years.

PROCTOR, Minn.-  Every year in the United States alone 6,000 people are diagnosed with ALS. For the 19th year, snowmobilers are helping to raise funds for ALS research. The Blackwoods Blizzard Tour, also known as the Million Dollar Ride, brings together experienced snowmobilers to donate and raise money for ALS. Riders will travel 150 miles each day during the 3-day–journey. One…

Local Business Owners to Brainstorm Solutions to Workforce Gap

NE MN Workforce Solutions Series

DULUTH, Minn. – Next week local leaders and business owners will be coming together to find a solution to the looming workforce gap. This is part of the “NE MN Workforce Solutions Series” event. The workforce gap is currently developing as baby boomers retire and the population in the Northeast region stays stagnant. According to Ian Vincent with Northforce, it…

Cold Front Celebration Brings Excitement to Canal Park

The weekend event is just the start of a month long celebration.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Along with the cold, winter brings plenty of activities perfect to spend time doing in Duluth. This weekend Canal Park is kicking off the first ever Cold Front Celebration motivating everyone to get outside.  It’s no secret tourists love Canal Park but the city of Duluth wants residents to get outside and take back the popular destination. “We’re…

It’s Finally Girl Scout Cookie Season

Girl Scouts are the largest female lead business in the world.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The second most purchased cookies in the United States are available this Saturday. The cookies are sold by the largest female lead business in the world, it’s Girl Scout cookies. Thursday the Girl Scouts received over 5,000 boxes of cookies and this shipment is just the kick off of the season. People around the country stock up on these…

Crews Continue Through Cold in Aerial Lift Bridge Construction

Officials say construction is right on schedule.

DULUTH, Minn.- This cold weather is not stopping workers on the Aerial Lift Bridge. This is the first time in 60 years the deck of the bridge is being replaced. As of Thursday the aerial lift bridge has traffic down to one lane. Officials say the construction is right on schedule. Work on the west side is almost complete. Projects…

Northlanders Prepare for Upcoming Caucus

The training is put on completely by volunteers.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wednesday night training was held at the Duluth Labor Temple in preparation for caucuses starting Tuesday Feb. 5th. The Northlanders undergoing training learn how to host their precinct caucus. Training goes through how to register people and how to except resolutions that could be passed on to the state. The training is ran completely by volunteers. “All these…

Couture Floral Design in Duluth’s Woodland Neighborhood

Saffron and Grey is Located at 2303 Woodland Avenue in Duluth, Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – When you think of flowers, a special occasion probably comes to mind. Technology has since changed the way many of us order flowers, as it’s now easier than ever to go online, place an order and have it delivered. However, owners of one flower shop in Duluth are looking to keep as many orders as they can,…

Inside Look at the John Beargrease Marathon Starting Line

Every musher has a different story behind their passion to race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.-  Mushers heading out for the John Beargrease marathon say dog racing is unlike any sport. Winter along the Northshore can create the ideal conditions or make for a challenging journey. “We go out there and what happens, happens. You just kind of go with the flow, that’s what this sport is,” first time Beargrease musher Liza Dietzen…

Inside the John Beargrease Opening Ceremony

The ceremony brings together everyone involved in the marathon, one last time before the race.

TWO HARBORS, Minn.- Preparations for the annual John Beargrease Sled Dog marathon took place in Two Harbors Saturday. Saturday night’s opening ceremony sheds light on how many volunteers, sponsors, and participants it takes to make this tradition going for years to come. “Let people know that they’re involved in this race and if you ever sit down and listen to…

Historical Center Highlights Northland Connection to World War I

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A history center in the Twin Ports is taking on the subject of The Great War and how the area is connected to that war. The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is hosting “World War I in the Twin Ports” on Thursday, January 25 at 6:30 p.m. Local historian and Glensheen Mansion Director, Dan Hartman, will…